Owlbear
Large Monstrosity, unaligned
700 XP
Special Abilities
Keen Sight and Smell
The owlbear has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on sight or smell.
Actions
Multiattack
The owlbear makes two attacks: one with its beak and one with its claws.
Beak
Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one creature. Hit: 10 (1d10 + 5) piercing damage.
Claws
Melee Weapon Attack: +7 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (2d8 + 5) slashing damage.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
The Owlbear is a cunning ambush predator that uses its keen senses to track prey before attacking with overwhelming force. Position it in terrain that allows for surprise rounds or sudden appearance from cover. Use its high damage output (3d8+4 per attack) to threaten the party's frontline quickly. Remember it has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks, making it difficult to surprise.
Combat Tactics
The Owlbear charges the nearest enemy and uses its multiattack to focus down one target at a time, attempting to grapple when possible with its advantage. It fights to the death but will pursue fleeing prey relentlessly due to its hunting instincts. Use its immunity to sleep effects and resistance to melee damage from non-magical weapons to highlight its ferocity.
Environment & Setting
Dense forests, rocky caverns, or overgrown ruins where the Owlbear can lurk unseen until ready to strike. The terrain should provide cover for the monster's approach and ideally have vertical elements or natural barriers to complicate movement.